February is American Heart Month

February always brings to mind hearts… but mostly because of Valentine’s Day and all the pink and red promotion that surrounds good old February 14th. But February is also observed in the United States as American Heart Month, and across the country various efforts will be made by volunteers to raise funds toward research and education efforts regarding heart disease, as well as disseminate information regarding heart disease and strokes.

The American Heart Association (AHA) spearheaded efforts to develop the annual observance of American Heart Month, and since 1963, Congress has required that the president declare the month of February as American Heart Month.

February 4, for instance, is designated as National Wear Red Day. On Friday, people who support the AHA’s Go Red for Women initiative will wear red, to help raise awareness of heart disease. This annual practice was launched in 2004, and has not been limited to individuals turning out in crimson splendor on the 4th day of February: communities, companies, and city landmarks have expressed support by going red.

Visit www.GoRedForWomen.org. and join the thousands of women who are learning to reduce their personal risk for heart disease.

Take time this month to think about your heart and the hearts of those you love – beyond Valentine’s cards and roses – and do what you can to keep those around you heart healthy.

A few of the Tiftarea's local resources include Dr. Paul Murray, a Cardiologist at the Affinity Clinic and TRMC's Heart and Vascular Center, which has been named a Top 10 Hospital in Coronary Intervention by Georgia Trend Magazine.  Take your health to heart!